You either need a locksmith never or right now. The good ones answer the phone at 11 PM, get there fast, and don't oversell — the bad ones quote double once they're already in your driveway.
What locksmiths cover
- Lockouts — house, car, safe
- Lock replacement and re-keying (cheaper than full replacement)
- High-security lock installation (Mul-T-Lock, ASSA, Yale)
- Burglary repair and reinforcement
- Safe opening and combination changes
- Smart-lock installation (Yale, August, Aqara)
- Car lock and key issues — including transponder programming
What locksmiths cost in South Africa (2026)
Standard residential lockout R350-R900 (more after hours). Lock replacement R350-R1,500 plus the lock itself (Yale standard R150-R450, Mul-T-Lock or ASSA R1,200-R3,500). Re-keying existing locks R250-R500 per cylinder. Car key replacement: standard mechanical R350-R900; transponder R1,200-R3,500; modern proximity key R3,500-R8,500. Smart locks R3,500-R9,500 supplied and installed.
What to look for
- Quote upfront on the phone — not "we'll see when we get there".
- Identity check they ask of you (proof of address) — that's a sign of legitimacy.
- Insurance for damage during forced entry.
- Reviews mentioning fair pricing under stress.
Handi-za locksmiths list their service area and after-hours availability. Save a few favourites now so you have a number when you need it.